Introduction to Light: Reflection & Refraction

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the properties, behavior, and characteristics of light, including reflection and image formation.

Light

An invisible form of energy that gives us the sensation of seeing.

Rectilinear Propagation

The property of light that enables it to travel in straight lines.

Reflection of Light

The phenomenon where light bounces back into the same medium when it hits a polished surface.

Laws of Reflection

1. The incident ray, reflected ray, and the normal lie in the same plane. 2. The angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection.

Virtual Image

An image formed when reflected rays appear to meet at a point but do not actually intersect; it cannot be obtained on a screen.

Real Image

An image formed by the actual intersection of reflected rays, which can be projected onto a screen.

Lateral Inversion

The phenomenon where the left side of an object appears as the right side in the image and vice versa.

Types of Reflection

Regular reflection occurs on smooth surfaces, while diffused reflection occurs on rough surfaces.

Speed of Light

The speed of light in free space (vacuum) is approximately $3 imes 10^8 ext{ m/s}$.

Angle of Incidence

The angle formed between the incident ray and the normal at the point of incidence.

Angle of Reflection

The angle formed between the reflected ray and the normal at the point of reflection.